Reading midfielder Pelle Clement has returned to his birthplace in the Netherlands with PEC Zwolle, as the club confirmed the deal on Thursday. 

The move sees Clement link up with former Reading manager, Jaap Stam, after the Dutchman was recently appointed as the new boss of PEC Zwolle.

This deal won't come as a surprise to many Reading supporters, with Clement not featuring for the Royals at all this season, much to the frustration of supporters.

He has fallen down the pecking order in Berkshire, and newly appointed manager Jose Gomes evidently didn't see him in his plans for the remainder of the season.

The midfielder made 23 appearances altogether for Reading last season, but when Paul Clement succeeded Jaap Stam as manager, he rarely featured for the Royals.

He'll be hoping that a return to the Netherlands could be the turning point in his career, after a disappointing spell in England.

Clement isn't likely to be the only player heading for the exit door at Reading this month, with Gomes reportedly looking to move as many as six first-team players on in a complete reshuffle.

It remains to be seen as to who those players are, but it could be a potentially season defining transfer window for the Royals as they battle to retain their Championship status.

The Verdict

This move certainly isn't a surprise.

Clement can feel hard done by not to have started a league game this season, and he would benefit from regular first-team football to help aid his development.

Jaap Stam can certainly be the man to get the best out of the midfielder, after he had previously shown glimpses of his quality with the Royals.

Thoughts? Let us know!